I started in engineering and while i got my private certificate during last year of school, slowly added ratings as cash allowed, and continued working in the field for 2 1/2 years after obtaining CFI.
My comment would be don't get too wedded to the paycheck to quit.... if conditions are good for instruction work, or other fast time-building, go for it!
Another thing you might try, since you have a few years of schooling yet, is to (if geographically convenient) get a glider rating at a club. Learn to fly a wing without the distraction of a noisy fire hazard(engine), meet people including airline-types in the club, watch, learn, listen..... your later A.S.E.L. training will go MUCH smoother as you will already be a pilot.